UAE- Car review: Volkswagen Touareg V8 R line


(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)Undergoing its latest facelift last year the VW Touareg has made a sizeable inroad into the mainstream since its introduction almost 15 years ago. Like the North African nomadic tribe after which the car is named constant evolution to ingratiate with the environment has led to success. The popularity of SUVs is undeniable across the board however Volkswagen has managed to recognise novel trends within the segment and incorporate them into each incarnation of the Touareg leading to 700000 sales in the last decade.

The 2015 model for example sees the much lauded flared headlights and LED running lights accentuating a good looking front end. The V8 R-Line I drove had 21-inch rims and the optional chrome trim which made it look very swish indeed.

Inside sporty R-Line leather racing-style seats in the front demonstrated a conscious effort to move away from the sedate city SUV image to a racier more luxurious experience. To a large extent the styling achieves its aims. You cannot escape the fact the Touareg is a handsome vehicle. While it won't turn heads in quite the same way a Cayenne or even a X5 may (a genuine concern for many UAE buyers) for the price - anything from around Dhs170000 to Dhs320000 depending on options - you're getting a decent quick spacious and elegant automobile.

Perhaps one of the greatest of the Touareg's attributes is its fuel economy. With the shifting petrol prices we now have to take into account the Touareg is said to do 100km for every 12 litres of fuel consumed. Of course variables including road-type and speed will affect the numbers but as a general rule of thumb that is pretty good. Add the car's 100-litre tank into the equation and filling up shouldn't be a frequent chore.

What about its off-road capabilities for the adventurous among you? Well the extreme desert bashing types generally doesn't purchase these SUVs however Volkswagen has obviously spent some time putting in technology which can help you in bumpier terrains. The best examples of these are probably the adjustable suspension and downhill assist braking making every descent as smooth as possible.

If fitting in the family is your major concern you have absolutely nothing to worry about. The Touareg will accommodate five comfortably. With the massive boot you'll also be able to pile in everyone's luggage with room to spare.

You'll reach your destination in good time too. The tested model's V8 4.2 litre engine went like a frightened stag. Just the slightest touch on the gas and from the engine's roar you realise why this SUV has a 0-100km/h time of 7 seconds.


Khaleej Times

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